When Franz was young his father would beat him. Franz is now stronger than his father and could stop the beatings; however, Franz simply curls up into a ball and lets his father beat him. This might be an example of ______________.
A) masochism
B) learned helplessness
C) a pessimistic response pattern
D) negative affectivity

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Franz's behavior of curling up into a ball and letting his father beat him suggests a learned helplessness response pattern. This is because Franz has learned that he cannot escape or avoid the beatings, and has therefore given up trying to resist or defend himself. This is a common response to situations of chronic or uncontrollable stress or adversity. Masochism, pessimistic response patterns, and negative affectivity are not necessarily applicable to this situation, although they may be related in some way.

When Franz Was Young His Father Would Beat Him